Body Panels
Body panels are the structural and cosmetic outer sections of the vehicle body, including doors, wings, bonnets and tailgates.
What it does
Panels form the visible shape of the vehicle and, in the case of structural panels, contribute to body rigidity and crash performance.
Signs a body panel is failing
- Accident damage, dents or creasing
- Rust perforation, most commonly along lower edges and wheel arches
- Damaged or distorted mounting points
- Panel gaps that cannot be adjusted out
When to replace them
Not a wear item. Replaced after accident damage or corrosion.
What to confirm before ordering
Have these ready and the counter can usually confirm the part in under a minute.
- Exact model year and whether pre or post facelift
- Left or right hand drive, which changes some panels
- Whether the panel is supplied primed
- Provision for mirrors, trim, sensors and mouldings
Body Panels questions
Are body panels supplied ready to fit?
They arrive as bare or primed steel and require preparation, paint and often the transfer of trim, handles and wiring from the old panel. Allow for that in the quote.
Why does the branch need the exact build year?
Because facelifts change panel shape and mounting points, often mid model year. A panel that is right for the model name can still be wrong for the specific vehicle.